As the situation for LGB & T people in Russia continues to deteriorate, Stonewall has issued advice to its supporters on the situation and how they can support Russian activists. The update is available at www.stonewall.org.uk/russia and contains information about the Russian government's abuse of LGB & T people's human rights, and practical actions people can take.

In a message to Stonewall supporters, the charity's Chief Executive Ben Summerskill said: 'At Stonewall we remain deeply concerned about the situation for LGB & T people in Russia. We’re continuing to press the British Government to take action. Ministers have assured us that they raised their concerns about human rights abuses at the 2013 UK-Russia Human Rights Dialogue in May and at the G8 Summit in June.

'Stonewall staff have also recently met with Russian activists to provide advice and support and we’ll continue to work closely with them. At their request, we’ve shared our experiences of campaigning against homophobic laws such as Section 28 in Britain.

'With the Winter Olympics now less than six months away we also remain deeply concerned about the situation for visitors to Russia, including Team GB. We don’t think the International Olympic Committee and UK sports bodies have gone nearly far enough in providing concrete commitments on how they plan to support affected athletes and spectators. This is something we’ll continue to push for.

'Sadly, as with any campaign to change laws and hearts and minds this struggle will require long term, concerted effort.'